Jasem Al-Sanea is a 24-year-old Kuwaiti artist known for his unique blend of hyper-surrealist paintings and sculptures. His work draws inspiration from fictional oral stories, Kuwaiti mythologies and collective historical experiences, such as post-war trauma. With a deep connection to his surroundings in Kuwait, Jasem creates art that challenges traditional styles while weaving hidden symbols and narratives into his maximalist creations.

Kuwait Times: Can you tell us a bit about your personal journey? How old were you when you first became interested in art, and what initially sparked your passion?

Jasem Al-Sanea: I’ve always been fascinated by art and world-building. As a child, I sought to challenge reality and bring my imagination into the physical world through art.

KT: How has your academic background influenced your artistic style and the way you approach both sculpture and painting?

Al-Sanea: My artistic language is heavily influenced by my early childhood fascination with 90s special effects in “witch” films.

KT: Can you share the story behind how you first got into both sculpture and painting? Did you discover them together or at different points in your life?

Al-Sanea: I started experimenting with special effects makeup and prop making when I was 8 years old, but as I got older, I shifted focus. Once I began growing facial hair, I moved away from special effects and pursued more traditional art forms, teaching myself painting and later sculpture. This journey eventually led to earning a bachelor’s degree in fine arts.

KT: What themes or messages do you aim to convey through your art? Is there a particular subject that resonates deeply with you?

Al-Sanea: In my work, I blend fictional oral stories and Kuwaiti mythologies with historical collective experiences, like post-war trauma. I embed these narratives into hyper-surreal, maximalist artworks filled with hidden symbols.

KT: How does the culture and landscape of Kuwait influence your work, whether in your choice of materials, themes or forms?

Al-Sanea: Everything, from the concept to the materials and inspiration, is deeply rooted in my surroundings here in Kuwait. There’s so much to reflect upon.

KT: Do you feel that your art reflects or challenges traditional Kuwaiti or Arab art styles? In what ways?

Al-Sanea: I wouldn’t say my art reflects traditional regional styles. It’s based on my personal fascination with the uncanny. While it doesn’t follow traditional forms, I believe it challenges them — especially since my work is more figurative and hyperreal, which some might find conflicting or even immoral.

KT: Are there any specific materials you prefer working with for your sculptures, and do those materials carry symbolic significance in your art?

Al-Sanea: Each project is unique, with different tools and motifs symbolic to the work. I ensure that every element, especially the research, carries intentional conceptual and symbolic significance. Recently, I’ve been using sand, shells and myths as key symbols.

KT: What has been the most rewarding project in your career as a sculptor and painter, and what made it stand out for you?

Al-Sanea: The project I’m currently working on always feels the most rewarding. I’m most inspired by what’s yet to come, rather than by what I’ve already accomplished.

KT: What were some of the challenges or key turning points in your journey as a Kuwaiti artist?

Al-Sanea: There’s a lot happening in the art scene in Kuwait and the region, which makes me excited and hopeful. It’s great to connect with like-minded people in such close proximity. Kuwait’s size is ideal for community organizing, and there’s so much talent here! The main challenge is access to resources, as there aren’t many options for art materials.

KT: Do you have any upcoming exhibitions or projects that you’re particularly excited about? Can you tell us more about them?

Al-Sanea: Yes, I have some very exciting things coming up in the next few months — new artworks and exhibits. You’ll just have to stay tuned!